SouthernWorldwide.com – The family of Meghan McCain is grappling with the unexpected passing of her stepbrother, Douglas Shepp McCain, who was the eldest adopted son of the late Senator John McCain. He was 66 years old.
Doug McCain passed away on Wednesday, according to his funeral home obituary, which did not reveal the specific cause of his sudden death. The news has sent shockwaves through the family and political circles connected to the McCain legacy.
“I am deeply saddened to share the news of my brother Doug McCain’s sudden passing,” Meghan McCain expressed in a post on X on Sunday morning. “He was a truly wonderful, joyful man who supported me throughout my life.”
She continued, saying, “He brought humor, fun and great conversation to every room. I will cherish our memories together. Our prayers are with his wife Ashley and children Caroline and Shepp.”
The McCain Institute also shared their condolences with the family during this difficult time. The organization released a statement acknowledging Doug’s connection to their family.
“We extend our condolences to the McCain family following the passing of Douglas ‘Doug’ Shepp McCain, the eldest son of John McCain,” the institute wrote on Saturday on X. The statement reflected on his military background and character.
“A Navy pilot like his father, Doug will be remembered as a patriot and friend to the many alumni of Sen. McCain’s Institute, campaigns and Senate staff,” the institute continued, highlighting his service and reputation among those who knew the family.
Doug McCain was born on October 4, 1959, in Pensacola, Florida, and spent his formative years growing up in Jacksonville. During his youth, he developed a passion for outdoor activities, particularly surfing and playing various sports including baseball and soccer. His athletic pursuits continued throughout his youth before he transitioned to higher education.
He graduated from Jacksonville Episcopal High School in 1977 and went on to attend the University of Virginia, where he pursued a degree in systems engineering. While at UVA, he joined Navy ROTC and met his future wife, Ashley Jardine, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership that would span four decades.
After completing his studies at UVA in 1982, McCain enlisted in the Navy and served as a pilot for six years, flying A-6 Intruder aircraft. His military career mirrored that of his father, John McCain, who was also a Navy aviator and former prisoner of war during the Vietnam conflict.
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Following his military service, Doug built an extensive career with American Airlines. According to his family, he discovered work he genuinely loved at the airline, and his satisfaction grew particularly after he achieved the position of captain. This second career provided him with fulfillment and purpose in his post-military life.
Doug was the adopted son of John McCain from the senator’s first marriage to Carol Shepp McCain. John McCain, who served as a Navy pilot and endured years of captivity in Vietnam, later represented Arizona in the U.S. Senate and became the Republican presidential nominee in 2008. He passed away in 2018, leaving behind a significant political legacy.
The obituary painted a vivid portrait of Doug’s personality and character. It noted his straightforward nature and intellectual confidence.
“Doug could always be counted on to tell you what he knew and, more often than not, explain why he was right,” the obituary read. “He secretly loved his ‘World Book’ nickname and hated that Google eventually put him out of business.” The passage revealed his love for knowledge and his engaging personality.
His interests extended to athletics, with golf being a particular source of pride. He was very pleased to hold the McCain family record of achieving three holes-in-one, a remarkable accomplishment that he treasured deeply.
The obituary further described him as “a loyal friend to many and cherished each and every friendship.” He was remembered as “a devoted son, a loving father to Caroline and Shepp, and most recently found great joy in being Teddy’s grandfather.” His family emphasized that Doug would be remembered for his generous heart, loyal friendships, and unwavering love for his family.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ashley Jardine McCain, as well as his daughter Caroline McCain Hendrickson and son Douglas Shepp McCain Jr. He also leaves behind his grandson, Teddy, who brought him recent joy in his life.
Additionally, Doug is survived by his mother Carol Shepp McCain, brother Andy McCain, sister Sidney McCain, stepmother Cindy McCain, and stepsiblings Meghan, Jack, Jimmy, and Bridget. His network of family and loved ones reflects the complex and blended nature of the McCain family.
Private memorial services were held for the family, and a public gathering to celebrate his life was scheduled for Saturday, May 30 at the Princess Anne Country Club in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Friends and family gathered to honor the memory of a man who left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
